$25

State Knowledge Test

The first step in getting your license!

We offer the official Washington state knowledge test (written test) in all locations, 1-3 times daily. All tests are done by appointment, with same-day appointments available. Schedule a time online, over the phone, via text or email, or in person.

The test consists of 40 multiple choice questions, and you must answer at least 32 of them correctly. Scroll down for tips on how to pass!

Make your test appointment today!

Auburn

Federal Way

Maple Valley

Book online by clicking on a location above,
or call us to schedule at 206-207-5555

Washington State Knowledge Exam - Written Test

How much does it cost?

The state knowledge test is $25 per attempt. We want you to pass on the first try, so please be sure to read our "How Do I Prepare for the Written Test?" page.

Am I eligible to take the written test?

You must be at least 15-1/2 years old to take the state written test (or have completed a teen driver's ed course if under 15-1/2)
You must have a Washington state ID number, which is on a Washington state ID card or permit. You don't need an ID card, but the ID number is required and is free to get one. If you don't have an Washington state ID number, you can learn how to get one here.

That's it! You do not have to meet other requirements, even if you have unpaid fines from another state, or are reinstating your license from a suspension.

What languages do you offer the knowledge test in?

The state knowledge test is always available in English, Spanish, Russian, Chinese, Vietnamese, Korean, and Japanese. You do not need to make a special request for a language; they are always available.

What is a Washington state ID number?

If you have a Washington state ID card, permit, or a driver's license, it's at the top of your card. If you have the older style, it looks like this SMITHJA123QZ. If you have the newer style, it starts with WDL and looks like this: WDL123ABC23B.

If you don't have one of those cards, you can register for the ID number for free at the DOL website. Signing up takes about 15 minutes, and you can find more information on this page. You must have one of these numbers to be able to schedule an appointment and to take the state written test.

What should I expect for the test?

The knowledge test consists of:

40 multiple-choice questions
Test is done on paper
You must answer at least 32 correctly to pass
Session is 1 hour long, try to arrive a few minutes early
Most people take about 30 minutes to complete it
Only one test attempt permitted per session
Max 3 written tests per day

What do I need to bring for the test?

• $25 for the test

• Photo ID (state ID card, school ID, passport, etc.) Your ID should be an original document or card issued by a government, school, or municipality. If you aren't sure what you need, visit our page on ID requirements here.

What do I need to know to pass?

#1 - Read the driver's guide. Read it again, then re-read chapters 4 and 5 (most people miss questions from these chapters). You can get a free PDF copy down below, or go to a DOL license office to request a free paper copy.

#2 - There are no shortcuts. You can try online practice tests if you like, but please don't pay money for them. We have not seen any practice tests that have questions you'll find on the state test. The exception would be road signs, but the only ones that are on the test can be found on the inside covers of the driver's guide.

#3 - Be humble. Most people do not pass on the first try, mostly because they don't read the guide. You might know how to drive really well, but the knowledge test is only based on the question, "Did you read the book?".